Hawthorn has made three changes to its Round 21 team, with debutant Changkuoth Jiath headlining a trio of inclusions.
The young defender receives his call up off the back of some solid form at VFL level, having averaged 15 disposals and three tackles since returning from a fractured jaw three weeks ago.
GM-Football Graham Wright believes Jiath will inject some excitement into the line up.
“We’re thrilled that CJ will be playing his AFL debut this weekend,” Wright said.
“He’s been working really hard both on and off the field, so he thoroughly deserves an opportunity to show his wares at senior level.
“He’s a much-loved character around the club and his selection was an exciting moment for both himself and the playing group."
Jiath will be joined by returning duo James Cousins and Jonathon Ceglar, who have played 11 and 12 games in 2019 respectively.
Unfortunately the Hawks will be without Ben McEvoy, after the ruckman failed to overcome a strained abductor in time for selection.
“Ben pulled up sore from last week’s loss,” Wright said.
“We were hopeful he’d recover in time, but unfortunately given the six-day break it just wasn’t to be.
“He’ll have a rest this week and will hopefully return to face Gold Coast next Sunday.”
The side will also be without Grant Birchall after he injured his hamstring in his third game back, while Conor Nash has been omitted.
The Hawks will have to battle icy conditions in the nation’s capital, with forecasts predicting near zero temperatures and possible snow.
ROUND 21 TEAM
GWS v Hawthorn
Friday 9th August, 7.50pm
UNSW Canberra Stadium
B: Shaun Burgoyne, James Frawley, James Sicily
HB: Blake Hardwick, Ben Stratton, Daniel Howe
C: Ricky Henderson, Jaeger O'Meara, Tom Scully
HF: Paul Puopolo, Tim O'Brien, James Cousins
F: Luke Breust, Mitch Lewis, Jack Gunston
R: Jonathon Ceglar, Liam Shiels, James Worpel
INT: Changkuoth Jiath, Isaac Smith, Chad Wingard, Oliver Hanrahan
In: Jiath (new), Cousins, Ceglar
Out: McEvoy (abductor), Birchall (hamstring), Nash (omitted)
